Acura Confirms NSX And ILX Concepts As Well As 2013 RDX Prototype For Detroit

Acura will be making waves at next month’s 2012 Detroit Auto Show with three new concept vehicles previewing models destined for production in the very near future.

One of these will be the highly anticipated successor to the Acura NSX supercar, which despite still being a concept has already been confirmed for production by Honda CEO Takanobu Ito.

The new version is expected to be styled along the lines of the pure concept built by Acura for the upcoming movie The Avengers. It is also expected to feature a hybrid-based SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system consisting of a V-6 engine, seven-speed dual clutch transmission, and triple-electric motor setup.

The body is expected to feature a mid-engine layout, with seating for two just like the original NSX. However, drive will be sent to the front wheels as well this time ‘round so this new NSX will be all-wheel drive. Acura is boasting that performance will be on par with high-output V-8 sports cars.

In addition to the next-generation NSX preview, Acura also confirmed today that it will show a new compact sedan concept dubbed the ILX. This concept is expected to be based around the 2012 Honda Civic platform and will preview a new model due for launch next spring.

To be positioned at the gateway to the Acura lineup, the ILX will feature three powertrains including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid. It will compete with a score of new compact models coming from Germany’s luxury automakers as well as the Lexus CT 200h and a new compact sedan from Infiniti.

Finally, Acura will also show off a ‘prototype’ of its 2013 RDX, the second generation of the automaker’s five-passenger SUV (current model pictured below). Few details are known about this model except that it's expected to come exclusively with V-6 power and styling elements borrowed from the larger MDX.

Stay tuned for our coverage of the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, press days for which commence on January 9. In the meantime access our ongoing coverage via our dedicated show page.